This is me, Queen of Girl and Duck, the most supportive resource for children’s book creators in THE UNIVERSE. #TheQueenHasSpoken
After decades of city life, I now live in Central Victoria, Australia.
Trees, bees, flowers.
Pretty stuff like that.
I’m a bestselling and critically acclaimed author of twenty-three books for children (last count).
I’m published by two of the best publishers in the world, HarperCollins, and Penguin/ Random House.
I have thousands of readers, many who write to me regularly. What’s not to love about that?
Life wasn’t always so peachy.
I was lost for years. I didn’t fit in anywhere. I worked in the public service. A shoe shop. A garage. I went nursing and goofed around pretending I was Hot Lips from Mash.
In my thirties I got married, moved to Queensland and tried to play wife. But eight months after my son was born, my marriage fell apart.
I was in shock for months. I was a new mum in a new city, no friends, no family nearby, no job.
I threw myself into personal development books. For a time they were my only solace.
Eventually, I got me some therapy.
It was a huge turning point.
The psychologist was an angel. Not only that, she was a funny, inspiring, enthusiastic angel.
She encouraged me to follow my dreams of getting a tertiary education and developing my creativity.
We spent our final session talking about Apple computers. After that, we knew I’d be okay!
I got into my little car and drove back across Australia from Brisbane to Melbourne—a three-day journey when it’s just you and a toddler.
I found an apartment and enrolled in university as a mature aged student (so grown up).
For the next six years I studied English Literature and Cinema Studies while working part-time as a nanny—and an ironing lady. I can still iron a biz shirt in under two minutes…
Along the way I took self-development classes. I read mountains of books, too, including The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron—which cracked open my heart .
In 1999, a week or two after I graduated, more serendipity kicked in.
I had $500 left in the bank and was gearing up to take a job with a pharmaceutical company. I had a snazzy grey suit. I was even trying to straighten my hair…
But the universe would have none of it.
Out of the blue I was offered work experience at a boutique children’s publisher in Melbourne.
It was a game changer.
I was plunged headlong into the colourful, playful, crazy world of children’s book publishing.
I learned to write, edit, direct photo shoots, develop amazing projects, clean toilets and swear like a trooper…
Nearly two decades later, I’m in the best place of all. A place where I have something wonderful to share— a flawless track record in publishing plus knowledge, expertise and insights you won’t find anywhere else.
No, way?
Yes, way!
Here are some places where I’ve been featured…
These days, I not only write books (yep, I’m still at the coalface), I also nurture, support and guide other creators.
Like YOU!
Whether you’re an emerging author, illustrator or bright-eyed creative who wants to do all the things, you’ve landed in the right place.
Even if you’re just curious, I’ve got you covered.
Girl and Duck is all about community, sharing, and honouring your creativity.
Jump in here and the world of KidLit (writing, illustrating, publishing) will open up to you.
(If you’re brand-new, KidLit is short for Children’s Literature #industryjargon)
Oh! And…
Join my mailing list!
That way I can write you quirky, informative letters (people LOVE my museletters) AND I can let you know when I have new offers.
Plus, I can throw some freebies your way—such as Scribbles Crackers (they’ll INSTANTLY get you writing in new and sparkly ways).
See you on the shiny side!
Love
Jen xo
Remember: If you’re on my mailing list you’ll automatically be updated on all our news, including Duck Pond memberships.
PS Want to check out the books I’ve written? CLICK HERE for Jen Storer Author website.
